Ajax and Morocco defender Mazraoui chooses to sign for Barça
The right-back had other offers but has decided he wants to move to Camp Nou
Barcelona are close to completing their second signing for next season. With a deal for Chelsea's Andreas Christensen's in place, they are now closing in on Ajax's Noussair Mazraoui.
The Moroccan international has decided the next step of his career will be at Camp Nou. He's rejected the other offers he had on the table.
Now Barça and the player's camp must finalise the details of the agreement, which will see Mazraoui sign a three or four year deal with the club.
Mazraoui will join for free because he's out of contract in the summer. Xavi Hernandez wants to strengthen at right-back, with the club also waiting to see what happens with Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta, who can play across the backline.
Barça had previously prioritised Azpilicueta but began to focus on Mazraoui when they learned of a clause that allows Chelsea to renew the Spain international's contract.
Talks with Mazraoui's agent Mino Raiola progressed well and led to a verbal offer. Barça then waited to hear back because the player was also in talks with Milan, Arsenal, Dortmund and Leeds.
But he has opted for Barça because he sees the best chance to grow as a player and to win titles. There's no doubt that Xavi's arrival and Barça's attacking performances have tipped the balance in their favour.
With a deal for Mazraoui in place, the right-back position has different scenarios at Barça next season. They will try and sign Azpilicueta as well and we will have to see what happens with Sergiño Dest and Dani Alves, who wants to go to the World Cup with Brazil.
